NEW Leeds Rhinos signing Ethan O’Neill has admitted that head coach Brad Arthur was a ‘bit intimidating’ at first after making the move from Leigh Leopards.
Signing on a three-year deal, O’Neill has replaced the outgoing James Bentley in the back-row.
And although the 26-year-old had a scary opinion of Arthur at first glance, O’Neill believes the former Parramatta Eels boss is an incredible coach to work under.
“He’s really cool, coming in he’s a bit intimidating but he’s actually a really down-to-earth guy and I can speak to him about anything,” O’Neill told League Express.
“I feel really comfortable about going up to him and picking his brain about family as well as rugby.
“I think he will be really good for me, not just for rugby but as a person too. He’s a really good bloke, a great coach and I can’t wait to play under him and consistently learn more about the game.
“I think he will allow me to back myself a bit more. He’s told me to get the hands on the ball and take those opportunities and backing my ability.
“There have been times in the past where I’ve been afraid to take those chances but he’s more encouraging.
“He’s been in the biggest games that every player wants to be in and one day I want to get to those games
“He’s got a lot of experience behind him and I feel like he will make me better as a player and person.”
Of course, a different type of character sat atop the echelons at the Leigh Sports Village – owner Derek Beaumont.
Colourful and flamboyant, Beaumont is well-known for his outspoken opinions and clothing, but O’Neill insists that he is a kind-hearted man.
“He’s a character, everyone knows about Derek from the outside but he’s a really down-to-earth bloke.
“He loves the club, he loves Leigh and he loves the boys so I have nothing but nice words to say about Derek.
“He welcomed me to Leigh with open arms and for that I’m really grateful.
“I was by myself there at Leigh so it was really good for him to do that. He’s a really good fella.”